Google Play now requiring Google+ names for user reviews

Google Play now requires Google names in order for users to write reviews. (Google Play )

Google has begun asking users wishing to leave reviews on Google Play to start using their Google+ names.

Previously, users could leave anonymous reviews for content sold on the digital store, including apps, movies, books and songs, but no more.

Now, if you try to leave a review for a product, Google will send you a message saying "From now on, reviews you write will be posted publicly using your Google+ name and picture."

To go ahead and write a review, you are prompted to either press "Continue" or sign up for a Google+ account if you don't already have one.

Google might be making this change for two reasons. The first would be to continue promoting the Google+ social network by using another Google service as leverage. The second reason is likely to hold users accountable for the reviews they write, dissuading negative reviews posted by anonymous users.

As for reviews posted before this change, they will now say they were written by "A Google User."

It's unclear how users will react to the change, but it wouldn't be surprising if there is some backlash. That's because now when you leave a review, anybody will be able to click your name and be taken to your profile page on Google+.